Brighton & Hove Albion stunned reigning champions Manchester City with a 2-1 comeback victory on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the American Express Community Stadium. This defeat marks Manchester City’s fourth consecutive loss across all competitions—a troubling run for a team typically seen as one of Europe’s most formidable clubs.
City, coming off a tough week, initially looked determined to change their fortunes. Erling Haaland gave the visitors an early boost, scoring his 15th goal of the season after a rebound shot against Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. Despite a promising start, City struggled to maintain their momentum in the second half as Brighton’s substitutes stepped up, intensifying pressure on City’s defense.
Brighton’s Joao Pedro leveled the score following a chaotic scramble in City’s penalty area. Moments later, Danish international Matt O’Riley, who had recently recovered from a severe ankle injury, scored his first Premier League goal in style. O’Riley connected with Pedro’s pass, slotting the ball into the net just seven minutes before the final whistle, sealing Brighton’s memorable win.
The loss deepens City’s troubles as Pep Guardiola’s side recently exited the League Cup to Tottenham and endured a heavy 4-1 defeat by Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. This string of setbacks is unusual for Guardiola, who has never faced four successive defeats in his celebrated career.
